Cusco: Tour of Maras and Moray, Lunch at Mil Centro Restaurant

Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage. This full-day tour invites visitors to explore the salt flats of Maras and the unique terraced site of Moray, showcasing the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. The experience culminates at the renowned Mil Centro restaurant, where diners savor a tasting menu that celebrates Peru’s diverse ecosystems through innovative and flavorful dishes. With breathtaking landscapes and a culinary adventure, this tour promises an immersive glimpse into Cusco’s captivating past and vibrant present.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Dining Experiences In Cusco.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient Inca salt pans of Maras and the experimental agricultural terraces of Moray on a full-day tour from Cusco.
• Enjoy an exclusive tasting menu experience at the acclaimed Mil Centro restaurant, showcasing diverse Peruvian ecosystems and culinary heritage.
• Benefit from private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and convenience features like hotel pickup and drop-off throughout the tour.
• Discover the engineering marvels and cultural significance of these historical sites while immersing in the natural beauty of the region.
• Recommended for a minimum of 2 participants and not suitable for children under 7 due to the extensive site exploration.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour provides an exclusive full-day experience from Cusco to the captivating sites of Maras and Moray.

Lasting 7 hours, the tour is priced from €799.26 per person and features a private group experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Live guides in Spanish and English bring the history and culture to life.

Participants can choose between two exclusive tasting menus at the renowned Mil Centro restaurant, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of Peru.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 and requires a minimum of two people.

Comfortable attire and sun protection are recommended, as baby carriages aren’t allowed.

Tour Highlights

Beginning with a visit to over 3,000 salt extraction wells in Maras, the tour takes travelers back to the Incan era, when these wells were used for food preservation.

Next, the tour explores Moray’s ancient Inca laboratory, featuring remarkable ring-shaped terraces that were used for crop cultivation experiments.

The highlight of the day is the gastronomic experience at Mil Centro restaurant, where travelers can choose between two exclusive tasting menus – Mundo Mil or Mundo Vegetal – showcasing 8 distinct ecosystems of Peru through innovative cuisine.

Throughout the tour, visitors will enjoy private transportation, expert guidance, and an immersion in the captivating natural and cultural wonders of the region.

Inclusions

This exclusive tour includes picking you up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and dropping you off at the end of the day.

Private transportation and entrance fees to all sites are included. An expert professional guide will lead you throughout the tour.

You’ll enjoy a tasting menu experience at the renowned Mil Centro restaurant, featuring 8 ecosystems of Peru. Snacks, mineral water, and a first aid kit are also provided for your convenience.

With a minimum of two people required, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and appropriate clothing are recommended.

Important Information

Minimum of two people is required for the tour.

This exclusive experience isn’t suitable for children under 7 years of age.

To make the most of your day, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sun protection.

Baby carriages aren’t allowed on the tour.

The tour covers a lot of ground, from the ancient salt wells of Maras to the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, so it’s important to dress appropriately.

The private transportation and expert guide ensure a seamless and informative journey through these remarkable Incan sites.

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Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore the tour’s appeal, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on 38 customer evaluations.

Reviewers highlight the spectacular terraces of Moray and the mesmerizing salt flats of Maras as tour highlights.

Equally praised is the authentic gastronomic experience at Mil Centro, where diners savor the flavors of Peru’s diverse ecosystems.

Customers emphasize the seamless combination of natural beauty and haute cuisine, praising the tour’s focus on local culture and ingredients.

The consensus is that this exclusive outing delivers an unforgettable blend of historical, cultural, and culinary delights, making it a must-do for visitors to the Cusco region.

Maras Salt Flats

The salt pans of Maras, nestled in the picturesque Cusco region, represent a captivating remnant of the Inca Empire’s ingenuity. Thousands of stepped, terraced salt pools dot the landscape, each one meticulously maintained to harvest the precious mineral.

Visitors can wander through this living museum, marveling at the intricate system that has sustained the local community for centuries.

• Glittering pools reflect the sun, creating a mesmerizing visual display.
• Artisanal salt harvesting techniques have been passed down through generations.
• The pans’ unique architecture and engineering showcase the Incas’ advanced knowledge.
• Witnessing the salt extraction process offers a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
• The site’s natural beauty and historical significance make it a must-see destination.

Moray Terraces

Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the Moray Terraces present a remarkable archaeological marvel.

These ring-shaped terraces were once an Inca agricultural laboratory, used to experiment with crop cultivation at different altitudes. The terraces descend like a giant natural amphitheater, with the deepest section reaching over 100 feet.

This unique design created microclimates, allowing the Incas to grow a diverse range of crops. Visitors can explore the site, marveling at the ingenious engineering and the stunning natural landscape.

The Moray Terraces stand as a testament to the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and their deep connection to the land.

Mil Centro Experience

At the heart of the tour experience lies the Mil Centro restaurant, where visitors embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the diverse ecosystems of Peru.

Guests can choose between two exclusive tasting menus – Mundo Mil or Mundo Vegetal – each featuring 8 distinct environments.

These meticulously crafted dishes, led by renowned Chef Virgilio Martinez, offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures:

• Vibrant colors and intricate plating that captivate the senses
• Ingredients sourced from the furthest reaches of the Andes
• Innovative techniques that elevate the natural essence of each dish
• Exceptional service that enhances the overall dining experience
• A profound connection to the land and its rich culinary heritage

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed on this tour. The tour includes snacks, mineral water, and a tasting menu experience at the Mil Centro restaurant, so outside items are not permitted.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Guests can inquire about adding extra time to explore more sites or enjoy a longer dining experience at Mil Centro. Additional fees may apply for extended tours.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Senior Citizens?

There are no specific student or senior discounts mentioned for this tour. However, travelers are encouraged to inquire about any available promotions or discounts when booking the tour directly with the tour operator.

Can I Request a Different Restaurant for the Lunch Experience?

Yes, you can request a different restaurant for the lunch experience. The tour operator is generally willing to accommodate special dietary requests or preferences, provided the alternative restaurant aligns with the tour’s focus on local cuisine and ingredients.

How Accessible Are the Sites for Guests With Mobility Issues?

The sites are moderately accessible for guests with mobility issues. Maras’ salt pans require navigating uneven terrain, while Moray’s terraces have stairs. The tour operator offers customized assistance, but guests with significant mobility challenges may find the sites challenging.

Recap

Discover the ancient wonders of Maras and Moray, followed by an exquisite dining experience at the renowned Mil Centro restaurant. This full-day tour offers a captivating blend of Incan history, breathtaking landscapes, and Peru’s culinary excellence. Enjoy the unique cultural heritage and savor the diverse flavors that make this Cusco adventure truly unforgettable.

You can check if your dates are available here: